Why Raven Is the Perfect First Cosplay If You Hate Being Photographed
Ready to Unleash Your Inner Goth Girl?
If you’re new to cosplay, Raven is one of the most forgiving characters DC has ever created.
blue photos @Mypapas_photography
Most beginner cosplayers think the hardest part is making the costume.
It isn’t. It’s standing in front of a camera wondering what to do with your face, your hands, and your body.
Raven solves almost all of that. She doesn’t smile. She doesn’t flirt. She doesn’t pose like a traditional superhero. She doesn’t fill the frame.
She quiets it.
That means if you’re naturally reserved, anxious, introverted, or simply new to cosplay, you’re already closer to Raven than you think.
The Cape Solves Half the Problem
The biggest beginner question?
“What do I do with my hands?”
A cape answers it. Lift it. Hold it. Wrap yourself in it. Let it create movement instead of forcing your body to.
Now your hands have purpose.
The Blank Stare Actually Works
Most characters require confidence. Raven requires restraint.
The internet jokes about the Gen Z stare. For Raven? Perfect.
Neutral becomes intimidating. Stillness becomes power.
Every Body Type Can Make Raven Work
Raven’s silhouette isn’t built by having a tiny waist.
It’s built by:
The hood
Flowing fabric
Long lines
Strong posture
Controlled movement
The costume creates the illusion. Not your genetics.
She Pairs Perfectly With…
a few goth staples.
Chunky or stompy black boots
Smudgy black eyeliner
A dark lip
Silver jewelry
Black tights or leggings for layering
You don’t have to spend a fortune to get the look.
If you don’t already own these pieces, Depop and other secondhand marketplaces are some of the best places to build a cosplay wardrobe on a budget. One of my favorite tricks is setting saved searches on Depop for characters, brands, and keywords I’d love to cosplay. Then I check back every so often to see what’s been listed in my size.
A little patience usually costs a lot less than buying everything new.
Beginner Character Warm-Up
Before the camera:
Stand tall.
Relax your jaw.
Breathe in.
Hold.
Slow exhale.
Now imagine:
“I’m choosing stillness.” thats so raven..,
Beginner Goth Starter List
If Raven speaks to you, you might also enjoy:
Wednesday Addams
Morticia Addams
Elvira
Cruella
Vampirella
Kuromi
Scarlet Witch (comic version)
Black Cat
Rogue (hooded comic variants)
These characters rely on mood, posture, and presence more than exaggerated posing, making them excellent choices for beginner goth cosplayers.
